inDrive Adds Cashless Payments for Ride Hailing in South Africa

In Short

inDrive has rolled out cashless payments in South Africa. Riders can now pay digitally, not only with cash. The company says the update is meant to add flexibility for both passengers and drivers.

What Happened

inDrive, a ride-hailing app, launched cashless payments for users in South Africa. Cashless payments mean the trip is paid through a digital method inside the app, instead of handing over physical notes.

The launch signals a shift from inDrive’s earlier cash-first approach to a mixed payment model. inDrive is known for letting riders and drivers negotiate fares directly in the app, rather than relying on fixed, algorithm-set pricing.

While the company did not position the change as a removal of cash, it framed the rollout as giving people more choice in how they pay and get paid. That matters in cities where some riders prefer cards or bank transfers for safety and convenience, and where some drivers want less cash on hand.

Why It Matters

Cash remains common in mobility services across Africa, but cash-only rides can create friction. Riders may cancel if they do not have the right amount, and drivers take on more risk carrying cash.

Adding cashless payments can also improve record keeping. Digital receipts make it easier for riders to track spend, and for drivers to reconcile earnings.

For South Africa’s ride-hailing market, the move increases payment competition. It also puts more pressure on platforms to offer multiple payment options without losing drivers who still rely on cash income.